1. Product Overview
1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-2-imidazolidinone (CAS: 80495-47-2), also known as 2-Imidazolidinone, 1-(2-hydroxyethyl)- or N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)ethyleneurea, is a hydroxyalkyl-substituted cyclic urea derivative supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder or waxy solid. It combines the hygroscopic, protein-stabilizing properties of the imidazolidinone ring with the hydrophilic hydroxyethyl moiety, making it useful as a humectant, solubilizer, and stabilizing excipient in cosmetic and topical pharmaceutical formulations. Each lot is accompanied by a CoA including HPLC/GC assay, ¹H NMR, and water content (KF) verification.
2. Key Features and Advantages
• High Purity: ≥99.0% (HPLC/GC), suitable for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications
• Fully Characterized: Confirmed by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and MS; CoA provided per batch
• Excellent Humectancy & Solubility: Strong water-binding capacity; highly soluble in water and polar organic solvents — enhances moisturization in dermato-cosmetic formulations
• Protein / Enzyme Stabilization: Imidazolidinone core can act as a mild denaturant/stabilizer in biochemical contexts (similar to ethylene urea derivatives)
• Low Residual Impurities: Tight control on residual solvents, heavy metals, and water content per ICH / cosmetic GMP guidelines
• Flexible Packaging: Available in 10 g / 25 g / 50 g / 100 g / 500 g / 1 kg; food/pharma-grade polyethylene or amber glass on request
• Batch Traceability: Individually lot-numbered with retained sample for re-test
3. Main Applications
• Cosmetic / Personal Care Ingredient: Used as a humectant, moisturizing agent, and solvent in creams, lotions, shampoos, and hair-conditioning formulations; often employed alongside glycerin or propylene glycol
• Pharmaceutical Topical Formulations: Serves as a solubilizing aid and stabilizing excipient in ointments, gels, and transdermal systems
• Biochemical / Enzyme Studies: Investigated as a protein-stabilizing or mild chaotropic additive in buffer systems
• Organic Synthesis Intermediate: Hydroxyethyl group allows further derivatization (e.g. esterification, etherification); cyclic urea can participate in condensation reactions
• Industrial Specialty Additive: Used in certain textile finishing and coating formulations for hydrophilicity modification
4. Technical Specifications
5. Storage and Handling
• Recommended Storage: Store in a cool, dry place (15–25 °C) in a tightly sealed container. If in warm climates where the material may liquefy, ensure container is fully sealed to prevent water absorption (hygroscopic). For long-term storage (>12 months), keep in a desiccator.
• Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions. Hygroscopic — will absorb atmospheric moisture over time which may affect weight accuracy but not chemical integrity. Not prone to significant oxidation or thermal decomposition below 150 °C.
• Handling Precautions: Use in a well-ventilated area. Wear nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat. Avoid dust generation if in powdered form.
• Shelf Life: 24 months from date of manufacture when stored as recommended.
6. Safety Overview
• GHS Classification: GHS07 – Warning (low hazard; classified primarily as irritant in concentrated form)
• H-Statements: H315 – Causes skin irritation; H319 – Causes serious eye irritation
• P-Statements: P264 – Wash hands thoroughly after handling; P280 – Wear protective gloves/eye protection; P305+P351+P338 – IF IN EYES: rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing; P501 – Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations
• First Aid:
• Skin: Remove contaminated clothing, wash affected area with plenty of soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Eyes: Rinse immediately with flowing water ≥15 min; seek ophthalmologic advice.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; usually not a significant inhalation hazard due to low volatility.
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel. Seek medical advice if discomfort occurs.
• Transport: Not classified as dangerous goods for transport (non-hazardous per IMDG/IATA/DOT).
• Disposal: Dispose as non-halogenated organic chemical waste in compliance with local and national regulations.
